Twelve "First Steps" for the New Gardener.

1. Mulch. Never let soil remain bare. Organic, seed free materials work best.
2. Provide drainage for any potted plants. Roots need air as well as water.
3. Always plant at least one tomato plant.
4. Simplify lawn care to allow more time for your garden. Let grass stay 2-3" (5-7.5cm) high.
5. Always plant trees with the root flare exposed.
6. Compost! About 1/3 brown stalks & stems, 1/3 green leafy material, 1/3 food scraps. (Add a handful of soil from time to time to inoculate the pile with beneficial microbes and organisms.)
7. Plant the right plants in the right places. (Light, moisture, Ph, etc.)
8. Don't curse the earth, work with what you have.
9. Covet your neighbor's perennials.
10. Have one of each perennial.
11. Raised beds make weeding easier, extend the growing season and conserve water and your effort.
12. Use rain barrels for free, chlorine-free water, priceless in nearly any clime.

This was adapted from a top ten list that I saw on local public television. Please share it around with anyone who is thinking about starting a garden. We all benefit from one anothers successes!

Peace all!